It can vary quite a bit depending on what you plant and the season, but the average is one to two hours per week with more time spent during the planting and growing seasons. Be efficient and weed while you water.

For most gardeners, the growing season will be from April through October. Some gardeners will put in spring crops as early as February and others may have crops growing late into the fall or even winter. Year-round gardening is encouraged.

No. The garden registration fee you pay only partially covers the costs of operating Beaverton's Community Garden Program. If you give up your garden plot after you have registered, or if you fail to maintain your plot and it is transferred to another gardener, your plot fee will not be refunded.

While very uncommon, it can happen. Any gardener confirmed of taking vegetables, flowers, or supplies from another’s plot will have their garden privileges revoked. Gardeners are encouraged to harvest crops regularly to reduce the temptation of theft by others.

Rodents and other wild animals may be prevalent in the undeveloped area surrounding the various garden sites; it is the responsibility of the individual gardener to control these pests within their own garden space.

Maintaining an active plot is the #1 thing you can do to deter rodents. Regular harvest and cleanup will help reduce the problem of rodents. If you are composting on site please be sure to turn your compost regularly and do not add any meat or grains; only vegetable matter from your garden plot is allowed.

Non-permanent fencing is allowed, which can help deter some animals. Please keep in mind that fences may not cross garden pathways.

Newspaper is not allowed as a mulching agent or weed barrier. Although this may be an acceptable practice in home-gardens, the city has received many complaints from other gardeners, and from area residents, about newspapers blowing around the area because they were not adequately covered up and maintained.

Organic gardening focuses on building healthy soil that can sustain healthy plants. Organic gardening encourages the natural balance between living organisms in the soil. It is also safer for pollinators, wildlife, pets and humans.